El Paso, Texas, June 3, 2025 – On June 11, Aaron Terrazas will walk across the stage at Coronado High School, diploma in one hand and an associate degree from El Paso Community College (EPCC) in the other. Just a month later, he’ll trade his cap and gown for military fatigues as he reports to the United States Military Academy Preparatory School (USMAPS), the first step toward becoming a cadet at West Point.

It’s a path Terrazas never expected to take – at least, not until recently.

“I always had deep respect for the military, thanks to my dad,” Aaron said. “He taught me to always thank veterans and honor those who serve. But West Point always felt out of reach.”

That changed during his senior year when a growing sense of purpose, a determination to take the road less traveled, and a recommendation from a United States Congresswoman motivated him to apply. Despite applying later than most and being told not to get his hopes up, Terrazas gave it his all. The turning point came with a phone call he’ll never forget: Congresswoman Veronica Escobar had selected him for a nomination.

“I still remember what I was wearing and exactly how I felt when I got that call,” he said, grinning. “That’s when I realized, this could actually happen.”

Terrazas’ leadership potential is clear from his high school resume. At Coronado, he was a three-year varsity basketball player, a two-year varsity track athlete, and even took up piano his senior year instead of an “off” period.

“I just wanted to learn something new, and I’ve really enjoyed it,” he said.

Though he briefly joined the Student Executive Council, it was on the court and the track where he pushed himself hardest.

“The physical fitness tests for West Point were tough, but I’ve always taken pride in my athleticism. I’ve spent the last 10+ years trying to outwork everyone else.”

Terrazas is among a growing number of students earning a high school diploma and a college degree simultaneously through the EPCC’s Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) program. He admits that the EPCC P-TECH courses weren’t always easy.

“I’m grateful for it all,” he said. “Taking college courses while in high school gave me a real head start and helped me build the discipline I’ll need at West Point.”

From summer classes to joint coursework, Aaron and his P-TECH classmates supported each other throughout the four-year journey. “Graduating with them makes it all the more special,” he added.

Now another special journey continues in New York. Aaron’s father, Ignacio Terrazas, remembers the moment his son told him about his interest in West Point.

“It was well into his senior year,” Ignacio said. “I was surprised, but incredibly proud. He’s always had such deep respect for the military.”

Though the family doesn’t have extensive military history – Aaron’s grandfather served in the Navy – his father believes the academy is a perfect fit.

“Aaron’s confident, disciplined, and mentally tough. West Point is lucky to have him,” he said. “I just hope he gets into the Judge Advocate General program. He’s dreamed of going to law school and becoming a trust lawyer for years.”

And while Aaron is ready to head northeast, he won’t be entirely alone in New York. He has cousins in Long Island and New York City who’ve already welcomed him with open arms.

“I’m lucky to have family nearby,” he said. “Hopefully that helps with the homesickness.”

Aaron reports for duty at USMAPS on July 14, with plans to major in pre-law and eventually pursue his dream of becoming a military lawyer. Until then, he’s enjoying the last few weeks of high school and reflecting on everything that’s brought him to this moment.

“It still feels surreal,” he said. “But I’m grateful for every step of the journey – especially EPCC and the people who believed in me.”

His father puts it simply: “I couldn’t be prouder. Go Army!”

For more information on the EPCC Dual Credit and P-TECH Program, please visit:https://www.epcc.edu/Academics/DualCredit

Aaron’s Mother Elizabeth Terra, Aaron, Father Ignacio Terrazas, and brother Lucas

Tana Dennison, Karen Hernandez, Adri Barraza, Aaron, Claudia Saiz, Ana Dennison, Ignacio Terrazas, Lucas Terrazas and Jacob Saiz

Aaron Terrazas with his EPCC P-TECH Degree from Coronado High School

Aaron Terrazas Wearing his Westpoint Hat After Graduation